CLSA Data Collection Site- Research Assistant 3 (CLSA RA3)

Job Summary

The CLSA RA3 will assist in the collection of data from study participants through a variety of tests and surveys administered at the CLSA Data Collection Site (DCS) in the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health at the University of British Columbia. In some cases, interviews may be performed by telephone call, for example when participants live out of the commutable area, or when they are physically no longer able to participate in person. The CLSA RA3 will contribute to achievement of overall project goals by assisting the CLSA DCS Manager (the Manager) with administrative tasks at the data collection site, including scheduling of participant appointments.

Background

The Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) is a national study of aging and health, both at population and individual levels. The CLSA has recruited 51,000 individuals across Canada to participate over 20 years, approximately 1500 of whom are interviewed and assessed through a data collection site (DCS) at UBC in Vancouver. Information is collected from participants once every 3 years through in-person interviews, as well as physical assessments and biological sample collections at the UBC DCS. When in-person interviews are not possible, phone interviews are performed instead.

Organizational Status
The CLSA RA3 reports directly to the CLSA Data Collection Site Manager (the Manager) and works collaboratively with other study personnel on data collection. The Manager reports directly to the UBC CLSA Site Principal Investigator, Dr. Teresa Liu-Ambrose, and the CLSA National Coordinating Centre at McMaster University.

Work Performed
Performs intake and discharge of participants at the data collection site.

• Performs a wide variety of clinical and functional tests at the data collection site including:

  • general anthropometric and vital sign measurements

  • visual system testing, including visual acuity, ocular pressure and retinal scanning

  • audiometry

  • olfactory testing

  • mobility, balance, and strength testing

  • cognitive performance testing

• Assists with intake, inventory, cleaning and dispensing of wearable mobility and sleep tracking equipment.

• As part of ongoing training, may assist with lung function testing and electrocardiograms.

• As part of ongoing training, may assist with performance of echocardiograms.

• As part of ongoing training, may assist with bone mineral density and body composition testing using dual x-ray absorptiometry.

• May assist biological sample collection and processing.

• May be required to perform some participant interviews by telephone.

• May assist with scheduling of study participants.

• Carries out any other related duties as required in keeping with qualifications and requirements of positions in this classification

Decision Making/Accountability

Works within clearly defined guidelines and procedures, but exercises judgment in establishing priorities, trouble-shooting problems, and carrying tasks through to completion; new or unusual problems are referred to the Manager, a more senior CLSA research assistant on the team, or the CLSA National Biorepository Coordinator at McMaster University.

Consequence of Error/Judgement
Inappropriate judgement would compromise the quality of research studies and related data acquisition and the reporting of research outcomes.

• Inappropriate judgement also could compromise the safety and wellbeing of the participants.

• Inappropriate judgement would compromise research success and affect the credibility of the Principal Investigator.

Supervision Received
Works under the supervision of the Manager in carrying out all phases of duties and responsibilities; receives instructions from the Manager or a senior CLSA research assistant during orientation and on subsequent new assignments or changes in procedures, with a goal to achieving functional independence for all tasks and responsibilities; may also receive supervision and/or instruction from other study employees at higher classification levels than themselves and as deemed appropriate by the Manager.

Supervision Given
As deemed appropriate by the Manager, and depending on experience, may participate in:

· Training new and/or more junior staff in the use of equipment, techniques and procedures, as deemed appropriate by the Manager.

Minimum Qualifications
Completion of a relevant technical program or a university degree in a relevant discipline and a minimum three years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

- Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own

- Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion

Preferred Qualifications

• Fluent in English.

• University degree in related discipline in the health or biomedical sciences.

• At least 1 years of work experience in a related field or research project, for example (but not limited to):

  • • Experience working in a clinical research setting, including experience with tests of physical, psychological and cognitive functioning like those used by CLSA.

    • Experience conducting interviews, in person or by telephone, in epidemiological or clinical research.

• Proficiency working with computers running Microsoft operating systems and software applications.

• Must be well organized, detail-oriented and able to adhere to detailed SOPs and keep concise records when required, such as maintenance and calibration records, or case report forms for data collection.

• Must be reliable, independent and professional.

• Must be willing to work some evenings and weekends.

Other Requirements

• Must be willing to work some evenings and weekends.